Flag Day and what it means

by Zak Hamil

Bay Sea Scouts Derek Reid and Zak Hamil present an American flag to Commodore Clay Miller and Vice Commodore Matt Dailey of the Bay Boat Club in honor of Flag Day.

Flag Day is a special day on which we honor the American flag, and it is held on every June 14. A little background on Flag Day is that on June 14, 1777, the United States switched the flag from the Grand Union flag to the first American flag. This flag had 13 stars to show the 13 colonies and red and white stripes. When more states were added, they had to adjust the flag. Now our flag has 50 stars for the 50 states and 13 red and white stripes to show the original 13 colonies.

Flag Day is not a public holiday except for a few states where it is legal holiday. Every government building and public buildings fly the American flag for this day to show their love for our country. The flag is called Old Glory or the Star-Spangled Banner from the fight of Fort McHenry during the War of 1812.

When Flag Day was a popular holiday there would be a street parade, flag raising ceremonies and other organized events to celebrate. To commemorate Flag Day this year, the Bay Sea Scouts donated a brand new, American made, U.S flag to the Bay Boat Club to show their patriotism and gratitude for the boat club’s support over the years.

The Bay Boat Club, located at 27400 Lake Road, is open to Bay boating residents and welcomes new members. Fees for 2015 are $100 annual dues and a one-time initiation fee of $200. For further details, email memberinfo@bayboatclub.org.

Sea Scouting is a co-ed program for youth 13-18 years old who are interested in sailing and boating activities; no experience is necessary. BoatUS Foundation-certified instructors are on hand to teach sailing and motor boating. For further details contact Richard Gash at skipper@seascoutship41.org.

Zak Hamil

I am a sophmore at Bay High School and a member of the marching band and stage band. I am a member of Ship 41 and BSA Troop 235. I volunteer at LENSC and participate in the Project Wildlife program.